[Toxicology of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the mutagenicity of the air].

Toxicological properties of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and their derivatives concerning their carcinogenicity, embryotoxicity and phototoxicity are reviewed. The importance of the Ames test and biologically directed chemical analysis for identification of these mutagenic compounds is emphasized. Possible chemical reactions acting as sources of mutagenic PAH derivatives in the atmosphere are given.